As a father of two daughters, I learned that the moment school lets out, boredom moves in—and the sense of structure quickly disappears. That’s why we make a summer bucket list for kids every year, starting with our road trips. I ask my daughters: What are your big to-do’s for this summer adventure? From that simple question, we build a list that gets them excited, involved, and screen-free. But wait, it works far beyond the road trip. This list keeps them busy all summer long, with new ideas added each week that spark creativity, get us outdoors, and help make the season truly memorable.
But here’s my secret: this little strategy isn’t just for road trips. It works all summer long. From backyard days to staycations, having a list of fun, screen-free bucket list items helps our family stay engaged, creative, and connected. Then, week by week, we add new ideas, check off favorites. Above all, we discover that the best summer memories don’t need to be expensive or far away—they just need a little intention (and maybe a popsicle or two).
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How to Use This Summer Bucket List for Kids All Season Long
We first created our summer bucket list for kids as a fun way to get the girls involved in planning our road trips. But I quickly realized it’s more than just a travel prep tool—it’s a summer survival strategy. Whether you’re hitting the road or staying home, you can pull out this list the moment your kids start saying, “I’m bored.”
We hang ours on the fridge and pick a few focus items each week. I’ll even sweeten the deal: if the girls complete five of the selected activities, they earn a little extra screen time or maybe an ice cream run.
One year, I asked them to create PowerPoint presentations on our upcoming road trip destinations—complete with which bucket list items we might be able to check off there. It keeps things fresh, gives them ownership, and gently nudges everyone away from screens and toward experiences that stick.
100 Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids and Families
To help you kick off your own tradition, I’ve put together my favorite summer bucket list ideas. Moreover, these are great experiences the whole family can enjoy. I have organized these into categories: outdoor fun, water play, creative projects, nature adventures, and more. So, whether you’ve got a free hour or a full weekend, there’s something here to spark joy, laughter, and a little bit of good old-fashioned summer magic.
🏃Outdoor Fun & Games
These are the kinds of activities that get kids moving, laughing, and burning off that school’s-out energy. No fancy gear—just sunshine and a little imagination.
1. Go for a Family Bike Ride
Hit a local trail or cruise around your neighborhood on bikes. Enjoy the breeze and the sights together and maybe race to the next stop sign for added excitement. Don’t forget helmets and water!
2. Fly a Kite
Head to an open field or park on a breezy day and launch a kite into the sky. See how high it can soar and let the kids feel the pull of the wind. (Pro tip: homemade kites work too and decorating them is half the fun.)
3. Backyard Field Day
One year at a family vacation rental I set up a backyard “Olympics”. Think tug-of-war, three-legged races, fly swatter golf and an egg-and-spoon race. Even the adults got in on the tug-of-war action. The best event was a whipped cream pie eating contest. The kids had to pull out an apple slice with just their teeth. Great for family photos! Keep it silly and lighthearted and award homemade medals (or popsicles!) to all participants.
4. Build an Obstacle Course
Use what you have (hula hoops, pool noodles, boxes, etc.) to create a fun obstacle course in the yard. Time each other running through it. The kids can design the course and challenge the adults to beat their time!
5. Family Sports Game at the Park
Grab a ball and start a casual game of soccer, basketball, or kickball at a local park. It’s great exercise and teamwork practice. Invite other families or neighbors to join for a friendly match if you want – everyone’s in for some fun!
6. Play Tag or Hide-and-Seek
Organize a game of freeze tag, flashlight tag (at dusk), or classic hide-and-seek. Playing at twilight or in the dark with flashlights and glow sticks adds an extra thrill for kids. Who’s “It” first?
7. Treasure Hunt or Scavenger Hunt
Plan a scavenger hunt around the house or yard. Write clues that lead from one spot to the next, with a little treasure (like a treat or small toy) at the end. Older kids can help create the clues for younger ones to follow.
8. Try Geocaching
For a real-world treasure hunt, give geocaching a go. Use a GPS app to find hidden caches in your area – it’s like a modern-day pirate adventure searching for “X marks the spot” (and you get some hiking in, too). Each cache is a surprise!
9. Toss a Frisbee or Disc Golf
Pack a frisbee for the park and practice throwing together. If you have a disc golf course nearby, try a round – it’s easy to learn and fun for all ages. Even just seeing who can make the craziest trick throw can get everyone laughing.
10. Classic Yard Games
Set up those timeless yard games: cornhole boards, horseshoes, ladder toss, or light up bocce ball. Create a family tournament bracket for a day of friendly competition. Loser does dish duty? Winner picks dessert? You decide the stakes!
11. Giant Bubbles Contest
Mix up some DIY bubble solution and use big wands (or a simple loop of string) to blow giant bubbles. See who can make the biggest bubble without it popping. It’s whimsical, a little messy, and perfect for a lazy sunny afternoon.
12. Glow Stick Games
You know that snap, that shake—and then the magic. Glow sticks have held a warm place in my heart ever since those early camping nights with my kids, when a few glowing bracelets could turn any evening into an adventure. Try glowstick capture the flag, ring toss, or even glow bowling with water bottles and a ball. Better yet, let the kids invent their own after-dark game. It’s simple, silly, and just the kind of summer memory that sticks.
13. Jump Rope & Hula Hoop Challenge
Remember jump rope songs and hula hoop contests? Teach the kids and hold a backyard jump rope competition. Try double Dutch or see who can hula hoop the longest. It’s retro fun that doubles as great exercise.
14. Invent a New Game
Let the kids invent their own outdoor game from scratch. Give them some equipment (balls, cones, chalk) and let their imagination run wild. They’ll love explaining the rules and having the whole family play their game.
15. HORSE or Badminton in the Yard
Set up a basketball hoop for a game of “HORSE” (the trick-shot shooting game) or put up a badminton net for a casual match. These games are quick to play, and you can keep a running tournament all summer long, whenever you have a spare 15 minutes of daylight.
💦 Water Adventures
When the summer heat rolls in, my kids are ready to dive into anything that involves getting wet. These ideas help cool things down fast and can turn your backyard—or a nearby lake—into the ultimate splash zone.
16. Sprinkler Run
When the summer heat hits, nothing beats running through a sprinkler! Hook one up in the yard and let the kids (and pets) dash through the spray. You can even create a sprinkler obstacle course with pool noodles and a garden hose for them to zigzag through.
17. Water Balloon Fight
Fill up a bunch of easy fill water balloons or try the newer reusable and ecofriendly version and declare battle on a hot afternoon. Kids can’t resist an all-out water balloon fight – team up kids vs. grown-ups, or everyone for themselves. (Set rules for safety: no aiming at faces, and pick up the broken balloons after.)
18. Water Blaster Battle
Arm yourselves with squirt guns or water blasters for another round of drenching fun. Turn your backyard into an arena for a water gun showdown, or play a game like water tag (if you get tagged with water, you’re out!).
19. Go Swimming
Head to a local pool, community center, or swimming hole to cool off. Whether it’s doing cannonballs in the deep end or playing Marco Polo, swimming is a quintessential summer joy. No pool? Sprinkler and kiddie pool at home works too.
20. Beach Day & Sandcastles
If you’re near a beach or lake, plan a beach day. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and sand toys. Spend the day splashing in the waves, digging in the sand, and building the biggest sandcastles you can. Don’t forget to collect seashells as souvenirs!
21. Play in Summer Rain
Warm summer rain can actually be fun! When the next light rain shower comes (no thunderstorms, of course), put on old clothes or swimsuits and go dance in the rain. Jump in puddles, tilt your head back and feel the drops, and embrace getting soaked. It’s a free shower and a free thrill.
22. Visit a Splash Pad
Many towns have free splash pads or spray parks. Take the kids for an hour of running through spraying fountains and jets. It’s zero prep for you and maximum giggles for them. Perfect for little ones who can’t swim yet but love water.
23. Go Fishing
Grab some simple fishing poles and head to a local pond or riverbank. Even if you don’t catch anything, kids will learn patience and enjoy the quiet time in nature. If you do catch a fish, it’s exciting – just be ready to snap a photo with “the big one that got away” story!
24. Wash the Car (and Get Wet)
A chore or a game? When it’s hot out, washing the car can turn into an impromptu water fight. Give the kids sponges and a bucket of soapy water and let them help scrub the car. Inevitably, someone will spray someone with the hose – and that’s when the fun really starts.
25. DIY Slip-n-Slide
Make your own slip-n-slide with a cheap tarp or plastic sheet. Lay it out on the lawn, add water (and a bit of soap for extra slickness), and let the kids slide away! They’ll belly-flop and glide across the grass, shrieking with laughter. (Check for rocks or sticks first for safety.)
26. Take a Boat Ride
There’s something magical about traveling across water. Whether it’s a scenic ferry, a sailboat tour, or a quick hop on a water taxi, even a short ride can turn into a memorable part of the day. Let the kids play “captain,” watch the waves, and enjoy the feeling of a journey that’s all about the ride.
27. Paddle Your Own Way
Grab a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and hit the water under your own power. It’s easier than it looks, surprisingly peaceful, and a fun challenge for older kids. Prefer to float? Try tubing down a lazy river and let the current do the work. Either way, you’re making summer memories—one paddle (or splash) at a time.
🏕️ Nature & Camping
Whether it’s a walk in the woods or a backyard campout, these activities connect kids to the great outdoors—and maybe even spark a lifelong love of adventure.
28. Take a Nature Hike
Hit a local hiking trail, forest, or even a nature path at a park. Arm the kids with a simple list of things to find (pinecone, red leaf, animal tracks, etc.) to turn it into a mini adventure. Enjoy the fresh air, listen for birds, and let kids lead the way at their own pace.
29. Backyard Campout
Pitch a tent in the backyard for a “camping trip” at home. String up fairy lights or use flashlights to create ambiance. You can tell ghost stories, play card games in the tent, and fall asleep under the stars – all without leaving home (and with easy bathroom access!).
30. Campfire & S’mores
Build a small campfire in a fire pit (or grill) and enjoy a classic evening of s’mores. Roast marshmallows on sticks and sandwich them with chocolate and graham crackers. Tell campfire stories or sing silly camp songs. For Christmas last year I was gifted a Mesa Solo Stove – I use it for anytime S’mores night, and it packs well for road trips. No campfire allowed in your area? Fake it with a microwave s’mores session – it’s about the experience and yummy treats.
31. Stargazing Night
Pick a clear night, spread out blankets, and look up at the stars. Try to find constellations or planets (apps can help identify them, but even without, it’s fun to guess). Bring out a telescope if you have one (we use binoculars which are much easier to store) or just enjoy spotting shooting stars. The quiet awe of a starry sky captivates kids and adults alike.
32. Catch Fireflies
On warm evenings, grab a jar with air holes and see if you can catch some fireflies (lightning bugs). It’s a gentle thrill to watch them glow in your hands. Just remember to release them back into the night after a few minutes so they can continue their magical blinking dance.
33. Watch a Sunset (or Sunrise)
One evening, make it an event to watch the sunset together. Pick a scenic spot (or just your backyard) and observe the sky change colors. For the truly ambitious, wake the family up early to catch a sunrise – pajamas welcome. Nature’s daily show can be pretty inspiring (and photogenic!).
34. Plant a Garden
Start a little summer garden. You can dedicate a patch of the yard or even just use pots on the porch. Plant easy things like cherry tomatoes, herbs, or sunflowers. Kids will love watering the plants and watching them grow day by day. Later, you can literally enjoy the fruits (or veggies) of your labor.
35. Bird Watching
Hang a bird feeder in your yard or park, then sit quietly and see who comes to visit. Keep a simple bird journal – jot down or sketch the different birds you spot. You might be surprised how many species live right in your area. (Pro tip: hummingbird feeders are especially fun to watch if you can attract those tiny flyers.)
36. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of natural items to find: a feather, a butterfly, a smooth round stone, a yellow flower, etc. Go on a walk and try to find them all. This turns an ordinary walk into a focused adventure. Each item found is a small victory that keeps kids motivated to continue the hike.
37. Visit a Nature Park or Garden
Find a nearby nature preserve, botanical garden, or state park and make a day of it. Many have walking trails, ponds, or even free guided tours. Bring a picnic to make it an all-day outing. The change of scenery and expansive space to run can do wonders for everyone’s mood.
38. Hike to a Waterfall
If there’s a known waterfall in your region or along your road trip, plan a special hike to that spot. Can you touch the backside of water? The promise of a waterfall splash at the end adds excitement to the journey. Take a family selfie when you get there – a triumphant memory!
39. Nature Challenges (Climb a Tree or Skip Stones)
Sometimes simple nature challenges are the most memorable. Find a sturdy low tree and let the kids try climbing it (with a spotter). Or teach them how to skip stones across a calm lake or pond – it’s a skill and a science experiment in one. These little interactions with nature build confidence and joy.
🎨 Creative Projects
Rainy day? Too hot to be outside? These crafty, screen-free activities keep hands busy and minds engaged—and let kids take the creative lead.
40. Sidewalk Chalk Art
Turn your driveway or sidewalk into an art canvas. Bust out a box of sidewalk chalk and let everyone draw to their heart’s content. Create colorful murals, use stencils, write inspiring messages, or draw a giant hopscotch board. The best part: a little water or the next rain will clear the canvas for tomorrow’s masterpieces.
41. Paint Kindness Rocks
Find some smooth rocks and paint them with bright colors, patterns, or uplifting words. Once they’re dry, take a walk and leave the painted “kindness rocks” in parks or along trails for others to find. It’s a fun craft plus a random-act-of-kindness in one. (Don’t be surprised if your kids start spotting others’ painted rocks too!)
42. Tie-Dye T-Shirts
Embrace the messy, vibrant fun of tie-dye. Grab a kit or use fabric dye to tie-dye old white T-shirts, socks, or bandanas. Each item becomes a unique piece of art. Kids love the big reveal when you unwrap the fabric and see the crazy swirls of color. Wear your new creations proudly all summer long.
43. Make Slime or Play Dough
A little kitchen chemistry can create hours of entertainment. Mix up a batch of homemade slime (I’ll admit the kit helps but there are tons of recipes online using glue, borax or contact solution, etc.) or cook a quick batch of salt dough or play dough. Choose fun colors and add glitter for extra sparkle. It’s tactile, creative play – and oddly stress-relieving for all ages.
44. Build a Blanket Fort
Who doesn’t love a good fort? Gather blankets, sheets, and pillows and construct an epic blanket fort in the living room (or even outside between trees). Crawl inside with some books, snacks, or toys and enjoy your cozy hideaway. This can quickly become a multi-day “headquarters” for your kids’ imaginative play.
45. Keep a Summer Journal or Scrapbook
Encourage the kids to document their summer. They can journal about each day’s adventures or make a scrapbook with drawings, printed photos, pressed flowers, ticket stubs – anything that captures their experiences. It’s a creative project that also helps them remember all the fun (and sneaks in some writing practice).
46. DIY Puppet Show
Let the kids put on a puppet show! First, have them craft their own puppets – old socks, paper bags, or even popsicle sticks can become funny characters with some decoration. They can write a short script (or improvise), set up a “stage” (the back of the couch works), and perform for the family. Silly voices encouraged!
47. Make Friendship Bracelets
This friendship bracelet kit is a favorite in our family—my girls make new ones every summer, often right at the start of a road trip. It’s the perfect craft for long car rides, and a fun way to kick off the adventure with a little flair. Grab some beads, embroidery floss, or paracord and get creative. Start simple with braids, or challenge older kids to try more intricate patterns. It’s relaxing, personal, and best of all, something they can swap with siblings or friends as a wearable memory.
48. Paper Airplane Contest
Fold and fly paper airplanes to see which designs soar the best. Start with classic designs and then get creative – add paperclip weights, make a giant plane from poster board, etc. Hold a contest for distance, hang time, or coolest tricks. This can entertain competitive kids (and engineers at heart) for hours.
49. Learn a Magic Trick
I can’t resist a good magic store—but the truth is, you don’t need fancy gear to pull off something amazing. Challenge each family member to learn one simple trick—maybe a card illusion, a disappearing coin, or the classic rabbit-from-an-empty-hat routine. After some practice (and a little dramatic flair), host a family magic night. You’ll be surprised how seriously kids take their new role as magician—capes, top hats, and magic words totally encouraged.
50. Arts & Crafts Day
Dedicate a day to all things crafty. Pull out all the art supplies – paints, crayons, craft paper, glue, recyclables, you name it – and let everyone create whatever they want. Paint portraits of each other, make collages from magazine cutouts, or build sculptures from recycling bin treasures. Play music and treat it like your own mini art camp.
51. Make an I Spy Tube
This one’s a backseat winner. I made ours using colored rice and tiny treasures from around the house—think game pieces, dollhouse items, a foreign coin or two. Just fill a clear water bottle (Voss bottles work great) with the rice and objects, leaving a little space to shake. Before sealing it up (with super glue), take a quick photo of the hidden items. That way, you can turn it into a custom search-and-find printable to go with it. It’s part craft, part quiet game, and fully road trip–approved.
52. Lego Build Challenge
Dump out the bricks and pick a theme—spaceship, dream house, summer campsite, whatever gets the gears turning. Set a timer or just build freely. You can even turn it into a friendly competition or create your own family LEGO Olympics. The best part? There’s no wrong way to build—just stack, snap, and let imagination take the lead.
🍉 Foodie Fun
Summer memories are often made in the kitchen—or around the picnic table. These tasty activities turn snacks and meals into family experiences (and a few sticky fingers).
53. Family Picnic
Pack up a picnic basket (or just a cooler bag) with sandwiches, fruit, and snacks and head to a local park or even your backyard. Spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal al fresco. Bring a frisbee or ball for after-lunch play. Food somehow tastes better when eaten outside on a blanket with a little breeze!
54. Make Popsicles or Ice Cream
Cool off with DIY frozen treats. Blend fruit and juice to pour into popsicle molds (or paper cups with sticks) and freeze them. Or try making homemade ice cream in a bag – it’s a fun science experiment and dessert in one. The kids shake up cream, sugar, and vanilla inside a bag of ice and salt, and presto: ice cream! Enjoy your creations in the sun.
55. Ice Cream Truck Treat
Hear the jingle? Chase down the ice cream truck next time it rolls through your neighborhood, or take a walk to the local ice cream parlor. Let everyone pick their favorite flavor or novelty treat. It’s a simple outing that feels special on a hot day (and creates those nostalgic summer vibes for you too).
56. Lemonade Stand
Help the kids set up a classic lemonade stand in front of your house. Mix a big batch of lemonade, make a bright sign, and set up a small table. They’ll have a blast serving drinks to neighbors (even if you give them a little acting business). It’s a great little lesson in entrepreneurship and confidence. If a full stand is too much, just enjoy making a fancy pitcher of lemonade to share with friends and family.
57. Watermelon Contest
Nothing says summer like a juicy watermelon. Slice one up and have a watermelon seed-spitting contest in the yard – see who can launch a seed the farthest! No seeds? Have a watermelon eating contest (who can finish their slice first?). In any case, prepare for sticky chins and lots of laughter, and then cool down with the sweet, refreshing fruit.
58. Bake Cookies or Cupcakes
Pick a rainy day (or any day) to do some baking together. Let the kids measure and mix ingredients (math and science in action!). Bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies, brownies, or cupcakes. Once cooled, have fun decorating the treats with icing and sprinkles. The whole house will smell delicious, and you’ll have dessert ready for game night.
59. Personal Pizza Night
Turn dinner into a fun project by making personal pizzas. Set out bowls of toppings (pepperoni, veggies, cheeses, etc.) and give each person a small pizza dough or crust. Everyone designs their own pizza with whatever they like. Kids get creative with faces or patterns in toppings. Bake them and taste each other’s creations. This one is a guaranteed hit because pizza.
60. Family BBQ Cookout
Fire up the grill for a backyard BBQ. Involve the kids in the prep: they can help season the meat or veggies, shuck corn, or mix a marinade. Grill classic burgers and hot dogs or whatever your family loves. Eating outside at a picnic table or blanket just adds to the fun. (Pro tip: Grill dessert too – banana boats or grilled peaches with ice cream are amazing.)
61. Farmers’ Market Meal
Take a morning to visit the local farmers’ market. Give each child a few dollars to pick out something interesting – whether it’s a weird-shaped tomato, local honey, or a loaf of bread. Then, challenge yourselves to make that day’s lunch or dinner entirely from the fresh ingredients you found. Kids are often more willing to try new veggies or dishes if they picked the ingredients themselves.
62. DIY Sundae Party
Who says you have to go out for an ice cream social? Host one at home! Get a couple of flavors of ice cream and set out a toppings bar: chocolate syrup, caramel, sprinkles, chopped nuts, fruit, whipped cream – whatever you like. Let everyone build a monster sundae with all their favorite toppings. It’s messy, sugary, and sure to produce big smiles (and maybe sugar highs).
63. Brew Sun Tea or Smoothies
On a really hot day, set up a jar of sun tea in the morning (just water, a few tea bags, and the sun’s heat – by afternoon you have freshly brewed iced tea). Not a tea family? Blend up some cold fruit smoothies or milkshakes together. Kids love picking smoothie ingredients and pushing the buttons on the blender. Sip your homemade cold drinks on the porch or patio and just relax.
64. Breakfast for Dinner
Who doesn’t love breakfast when it shows up at the wrong time of day? Pancakes, waffles, eggs, or cereal—it all feels a little more fun after dark. Let the kids help flip the flapjacks or build their own yogurt parfaits. You can even stay in pajamas to fully commit. It’s a simple switch-up that turns an ordinary weeknight into something worth remembering (and repeating).
🏠 Family Traditions
These are the little things that can turn into big memories. Try a few, tweak them to fit your crew, and watch a new family tradition take root.
65. Weekly Game Night
Establish a weekly family game night. Rotate through board games, card games, or even make up your own trivia about family members. It’s a great way to guarantee some regular together time. Classics like Uno, Monopoly, Jenga, or Charades never get old. Keep score throughout the summer or just play for bragging rights each week.
66. All-Day Pajama Day
Declare a lazy pajama day where everyone stays in their PJs from morning till night. Watch how quickly it feels like a party. Make funny rules like “breakfast for every meal” – pancakes for dinner, why not? – and just lounge, read, or play all day. It’s a wonderful break from the go-go-go, and the silliness of wearing PJs all day will get the kids giggling.
67. Living Room Campout
Who says you need a tent outside? On a rainy day, bring the sleeping bags and pillows into the living room for a family “camp-in.” Build a fort or just line up the bedding on the floor. Prepare some popcorn and snacks, and tell ghost stories or read books by flashlight. You could even pretend the power is out and only use lanterns! This cozy adventure will make a boring rainy night one to remember.
68. Family Dance Party
Push aside the furniture, crank up a family-friendly playlist, and dance it out! Have a themed dance-off (80s music? Disney songs? Just dance crazily?). Little ones will jump around with joy, and even too-cool teens might bust a move when nobody’s watching. Pro tip: Glow sticks or flashing lights instantly turn your living room into a dance club. This is a perfect pick-me-up before bedtime or while dinner’s in the oven.
69. Theme Day Takeover
On our family reunion road trips, we’ve done full-on theme nights with food, games, and matching accessories. One year we went full tiki: grass skirts, inflatable décor, a Polynesian dinner, and snow cones for the kids. Another time, we tried a western night with cowboy hats, a BBQ chuckwagon meal, and a wildly unsuccessful lasso contest (they can’t all be hits!). Let the kids help pick the theme and get involved in the planning. It’s creative, collaborative, and makes for unforgettable memories.
70. Summer Reading Challenge
Encourage some brain exercise with a reading challenge. Maybe it’s a goal to read 10 books by summer’s end, or to have a family reading hour every evening. Visit the library and let each child pick books. Many libraries have free summer reading programs with prizes, which can be a great motivator. Track your progress on a chart and celebrate with a reward (like a trip to the bookstore or a new book) when goals are met.
71. Giant Jigsaw Puzzle
Pick out a big 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle and leave it on a table to work on over days or weeks. Family members can add a few pieces whenever they pass by. It’s a slow-burn activity that everyone contributes to. When it’s finally done, it’s so satisfying – you could even frame it as a memory of teamwork if you really love the picture.
72. No-Electronics Day
Challenge the whole family to a screen-free day. No TV, no phones (except maybe to take pictures of your fun), no tablets or video games for 24 hours. Plan a bunch of off-line activities from this list to keep everyone busy. It might be tough for the tech-loving members at first, but by midday you’ll be playing board games, baking, or biking without a second thought about screens. End the day with a celebratory treat – you all earned it!
73. Family Talent Show
Host your own family talent night. Each person gets a chance to perform – it could be singing a song, doing a dance, showing off magic tricks, telling jokes, or demonstrating a weird skill like tongue twisters or karate moves. The key is everyone must cheer and clap for each other. You might discover hidden talents (or at least create some hilarious memories of Dad trying to juggle).
74. Start a New Tradition
Use the long summer break to start a family tradition that you can repeat every year. It could be something like “Sundae Sunday” (ice cream every Sunday night), an annual water gun fight on the first day of summer, or writing a family newsletter each August recapping the summer adventures. Starting a simple tradition gives everyone something to look forward to and can become a cherished family ritual over time.
75. Scrapbook Photo Night
Print out some of those hundreds of photos living in your phone (yes, actual prints!). Then have a scrapbook night where everyone helps create a summer memory album. Get some colorful paper, stickers, markers, and let the kids be creative in arranging the photos and writing captions. It’s a lovely way to reflect on all you’ve done so far and results in a tangible keepsake.
76. At-Home Spa Day
A few days before a big road trip, my girls always ask for a nail day—it’s become part of our pre-trip ritual. We paint our nails, pick colors that match the vibe of our trip, and talk about all the fun we’re about to have (and photograph). Even my nephew gets in on the fun—he’s all about the face masks and foot soaks. Add some music, a few cucumbers for the eyes, and suddenly you’ve got a full family spa takeover. It’s a fun way to slow down, relax, and kick off the countdown to adventure.
🗺️ Local Adventures
You don’t need a plane ticket to have a great day out. These ideas make it easy to explore your hometown or squeeze some fun into your summer road trip.
77. Go to the Zoo
Plan a family trip to the local zoo. Kids love observing monkeys swing or penguins waddle, and zoos often have summer programs or feeding times to watch. Make a scavenger hunt out of it: Can you find an animal for every letter of the alphabet? Don’t forget hats and water bottles for the walking. A zoo day is both fun and educational (but don’t tell the kids that!).
78. Visit an Aquarium
If it’s a sweltering day, an indoor aquarium is a cool retreat. Marvel at colorful fish, jellyfish, and maybe even sharks or dolphins. Touch tanks with stingrays or starfish are usually a big hit. It’s like exploring an underwater world without getting wet. Bonus: many aquariums have membership deals if you plan to go often.
79. Museum Day
Spend a day at a kid-friendly museum – it could be a science center with interactive exhibits, a children’s museum, or even a natural history museum with dinosaurs. Many museums have discounted or free days for local residents. Let curiosity lead the way: today’s rule is you can touch and ask about everything! The hands-on exhibits will keep boredom at bay.
80. Pick Berries at a Farm
Find a local pick-your-own farm for strawberries, blueberries, peaches – whatever is in season. Kids will enjoy filling their baskets (and sampling a few sweet fruits as they go). It’s a wonderful farm-to-table lesson. After picking, go home and use your haul to bake a pie, blend smoothies, or make jam. Freshly picked fruit always tastes better.
81. Community Fair or Carnival
Summertime often means county fairs, church bazaars, or carnivals roll into town. Take the family for classic carnival fun: ride a Ferris wheel or merry-go-round, play a couple of midway games, and definitely indulge in some cotton candy or funnel cake. The lights and sounds of a fair at night are pure magic for kids. Set a budget for games/rides and enjoy the festive atmosphere. 👉 10 Quirky Small-Town Festivals Worth the Extra Distance for Families.
82. Watch a Parade or Outdoor Concert
Check your city’s event calendar for summer parades (like 4th of July) or outdoor concerts in the park. Pack folding chairs or a blanket and soak in the community vibes. For parades, bring bags for candy if it’s that kind; for concerts, maybe bring a picnic dinner. There’s something special about enjoying live music or community celebrations under the open sky.
83. Attend a Sports Game
Go cheer on a local sports team. It could be a minor league baseball game, a soccer match, or even a high school game if it’s summer season. Tickets are usually affordable or free, and the experience of the crowd, the snacks (popcorn! hot dogs!), and the game action is classic summer fun. Teach the kids the chants or let them bring a homemade sign to support the team.
84. Mini-Golf or Bowling
For a low-key outing, take the family to play mini-golf at a fun course full of windmills and obstacles. A little friendly competition with score-keeping makes it exciting (perhaps winner picks where to get ice cream after?). Alternatively, hit the bowling alley for some air-conditioned fun. Kids love the funny shoes and the chance to roll a ball just like the adults. Use bumpers for younger ones and see who can bowl the wackiest style.
85. Family Road Trip (Day Trip)
Plan a day trip road adventure. Look at a map and find a nearby town or attraction you’ve never visited. Maybe it’s a lake an hour away, a quirky roadside giant statue, or a famous bakery in the next county. Load up the car, create an activity bag, play road trip games (I Spy, license plate bingo), and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Even a short road trip feels like an adventure when you’re a kid.
86. Travel by Boat
Experience travel on water. This could be as simple as taking a short ferry ride across a river or lake (many cities have one). Or rent a canoe/paddleboat for an hour at a park. If you’re near the ocean, maybe a dolphin-watching boat tour. And hey, if circumstances allow and you’re feeling adventurous, you could even consider a short family cruise vacation – but even a 20-minute ferry can be thrilling for kids who’ve never been on a boat before.
87. Ride a Scenic Train
All aboard! Find a local scenic railroad or train museum and go for a ride. Some places offer old-fashioned steam train rides or themed excursions. Even riding a commuter train or subway to the end of the line and back can be an exciting novelty for kids (especially if they’re used to car travel). Grab a window seat and enjoy the views clacking by.
88. Amusement Park Day
Take a trip to an amusement park or theme park if one is within reach. Roller coasters for the brave, kiddie rides for the little ones, and overpriced funnel cake for all – it’s a full day of fun. To save money, look for discount days or bring your own lunch. And if a big theme park isn’t in the cards, a local carnival or even an indoor fun center with rides can scratch the same itch.
89. Trip to a Water Park
If the kids are water-sliders and pool lovers, a water park is paradise. Spend a day zooming down water slides, floating in the lazy river, and jumping in wave pools. Many water parks have areas for all ages, from splash pads for toddlers to steep slides for teens. It’s a bit of a splurge, but an all-day splash-fest can become a highlight of the summer.
90. Camp at a State Park
For a bigger adventure, pack the tent and head to a state or national park for overnight camping. You’ll get the full experience of hiking, campfire cooking, sleeping in tents, and waking up to birds chirping. Many parks have very affordable campsite fees and great facilities. It’s a fantastic way to disconnect and immerse the family in nature for a weekend.
91. Tourist in Your Own City
Take a day to do things in your hometown that you’ve never done because, well, you live there. Maybe it’s visiting that quirky museum, taking a guided walking tour of downtown, or going up to the observation deck of a tall building. You could ride a city bus or streetcar line just for fun, or try a restaurant that’s famous in your area. Seeing your everyday environment through a tourist’s eyes can reveal hidden gems and is often inexpensive.
🤝 Community & Kindness
Some of the most meaningful summer moments come from doing something good—together. These ideas help kids connect with neighbors, give back, and brighten someone’s day.
92. Neighborhood Block Party
Team up with neighbors to throw a summer block party. It can be as simple as a potluck BBQ where everyone brings a dish, or as elaborate as closing off the street for games. Set up a sprinkler or kiddie pools for kids, put out sidewalk chalk, and maybe have a simple playlist of tunes. This builds community and gives the kids a chance to play freely with neighborhood friends while adults mingle.
93. Driveway Campfire with Neighbors
If a big block party is too much, start smaller: invite a few neighbors or friends over for a driveway campfire. Set up lawn chairs in the driveway or yard, light up the fire pit, and share s’mores under the stars. This casual gathering is low-effort and high-fun – it’s amazing how a few marshmallows and a nice evening can bring people together.
94. Family Volunteering Day
Pick a cause and spend a day giving back as a family. Volunteer at a local food bank (even young kids can help pack items), help walk dogs at an animal shelter, or join a community park clean-up. You could also set up a lemonade stand or bake sale where proceeds go to a charity the kids choose. Volunteering teaches kids empathy and teamwork, and it feels rewarding to contribute to your community.
95. Donate Toys/Clothes
Mid-summer is a great time to declutter. Have the kids go through their rooms and pick toys, books, or clothes they’ve outgrown to donate to others in need. Our local pet shelter can always use towels. Take the items to a local shelter or charity thrift store together, so your children see where their donations go. Afterwards, treat the family to ice cream or a fun activity to celebrate their generosity.
96. Secret Good Deed for a Neighbor
Encourage kids to do something kind with no expectation of credit. For example, secretly mow an elderly neighbor’s lawn or water their garden. Leave a small anonymous thank-you note for a community helper (like the mail carrier or librarian). Bake cookies and quietly drop them on a neighbor’s doorstep. These stealthy kindness missions are exciting for kids and brighten someone’s day unexpectedly.
97. Support a Kid’s Lemonade Stand
If you drive by a kid-run lemonade stand or bake sale in your neighborhood, stop and support them. Take your kids along to show how we encourage others. Buy a cup of lemonade (even if you’re not thirsty) or a cookie, and compliment their hard work. Later, talk to your kids about how it likely made those young entrepreneurs happy to have a customer – a little lesson in kindness and community support.
98. Chalk Positive Messages
Arm your kids with sidewalk chalk and go on a mission around your neighborhood (or just your driveway) to write positive messages and fun drawings on the sidewalks. Phrases like “Have a great day!” or “You are awesome!” or simple smiley faces and hearts can bring a smile to anyone out for a walk. It’s anonymous kindness art, and the whole neighborhood becomes your canvas.
99. Little Free Library or Garden Project
Start a small community project. You could build a “Little Free Library” box where neighbors can take or leave books (there are kits and plans online). Have the kids decorate it and be in charge of checking it. Or plant some flowers in a neglected public spot (with permission) to beautify the block. Even setting out a water dish for dogs on a hot day can be your family’s mini community service project.
100. Attend a Town Event
Make it a point to attend at least one community event together. It could be a cultural festival, an outdoor movie night organized by your town, a farmers’ market special event, or the annual 4th of July fireworks show. Wear matching family T-shirts or silly hats to get into the spirit. Experiencing local events not only entertains the family, it also helps kids feel connected to their community and creates a sense of belonging.
Make This Summer Bucket List for Kids One to Remember
In short, Summer doesn’t need big plans to feel big. Instead, build it around the little things your family actually enjoys. First, sit down and pick a few ideas together. Then hand over the marker and let the kids take the lead. Watch what happens when they start owning the fun. These moments—sticky fingers, late sunsets, backyard adventures—stack up fast. Before long, you’ve got a summer full of stories. So grab this summer bucket list for kids, pick a starting point, and let the good stuff begin.
